What they teach you in University IS applicable in YOUR working life

How many times have you heard "I hardly applied anything (at work) that I studied in university"

Well, I am guilty of (having said) that too, especially when I first started my career, and I had no idea how Microsoft Excel works...!

However, it taught me many other more important skills, indirectly, and I list down the top 3 that continues to help me deal with the challenges of the working world.

1) Problem solving
My Dad showed me recently a mathematical problem used for a university entrance paper, the sort of questions that I used to have to solve quite a bit during my time on campus. Honestly, I couldn't solve it there and then. But I'm certain that I would be able to solve it, if given time to look it up, make some references, and speak to some people.

Now, work does not require you to solve mathematical equations (well, hardly complex ones*), but it does require you to solve problems, everyday. And university has prepared you with this skill, to dissect a problem into manageable parts and think of possible ways/methods/sources that could help you solve it.

*unless you are doing highly technical/specialised work

2) Ability to learn new things
A lot of subjects were probably new to you when you signed up for your first semester. You probably felt overwhelmed by all things new and confusing. The working world is no different, but eventually, you made it out of your degree, feeling proud and ready to take on the world.

What you may not have realised, is that you have picked up the ability and confidence to face new "subjects" at work, and learn it enough to perform and deliver within a short period of time.

3) Building relationships
Campus was a melting pot of new people from all parts of life for me. Never have I met so many "different" people in one place. I made some "enemies", lots of hi-bye friends and life-long ones as well. I've had my share of arguments, confrontations, but also a great deal of quality conversations and discussions.

In the work place, you are faced with similar challenges. Colleagues come from different parts of the world, walks of life, seniority, values and beliefs. Like it or not, you have to learn to work and solve problems together. You probably picked up during your time at campus, that people are not weird... it's just that they have different perspectives.

A seed is planted
Certainly you don't graduate being an expert in these abilities. But a seed is planted. It is up to you to realise it and to nurture it.

Thankfully, my University did not teach me Excel.